How to get realistic looking results

So far the image is going well but before I bring it to print I want to make the hat look realistic which it does not, yet. Also Id like some tips on how to make the dog blend better with the background. The image is @

members.home.net/rtbnj/santahat.htm

Thanks,
Ryan

the picture looks fine, but i can see the white edges on the hat

firstly, i should say u had selected a good dog for that environment, as it is under a warm lamp.

then, if u pay more attention to the shadow of the pretty dog, it would turn into a perfect picture.

as that shadow around it, especially, around the hat, makes the dog like a sheet of paper. you know, it cannot shape a showdow far to the fireplace!

and more, the white edge of the hat.

that's all right.:D

I corrected the white lines and reduced the size of the hat a bit. PLease tell me how I can play around with the shadow in the hat and make it lighter or disappear. The shadow is part of the image so I wouldnt know where to start without losing quality.
Check out the latest @
members.home.net/rtbnj/santahat.htm

Ryan

and why not use the clone tool and reduce the shadow around the dog, especially, on its back and beside the neck? that would be better.